Mangaluru: Pedestrian killed in accident; court sentences driver to imprisonment

A city court sentenced a man to imprisonment for negligent driving resulting in the death of a woman pedestrian.

The fatal accident occurred on December 6, 2020, near Haleyangady Junction. Rajesh Poojari, the driver of the mini truck, was driving negligently when he struck Sukhalatha (45), who was walking along the roadside. The impact resulted in her death, while a child accompanying her sustained severe head injuries.

After hearing the case, the judge of the Moodbidri CJM and JMC Court sentenced Rajesh Poojari to serve 6 months of simple imprisonment and a fine of Rs 500 under IPC section 279, and six months of simple imprisonment and a Rs 500 fine under section 338. Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional seven days of imprisonment.

Additionally, under IPC Section 304(A), he was sentenced to two years of simple imprisonment and a Rs 5,000 fine, failing which he would serve an extra 30 days in jail.

The investigation was conducted by Inspector Mohan Kottari, while Public Prosecutor Shobha S. argued the case for the government. The Police Commissioner has announced rewards for the officers and staff who performed exceptionally in the investigation.